Ezekiel Okare: Bidco United Striker Optimistic About Ivory Coast’s Chances at AFCON 2023

• Ezekiel Okare is optimistic about the Ivory Coast at AFCON 2023
• The Bidco United striker has tipped the Elephants to lift the trophy
• Okare looks forward to the FKF Premier League tie against Nzoia Sugar

Ezekiel Okare, fondly known as 'Berry,' radiates optimism, a trait evident both on and off the pitch.

As a pivotal figure in Bidco United's roster, Okare's performance has been instrumental in shaping their journey in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League this season.

Currently, Bidco occupies seventh position in the FKF Premier League standings, tallying 30 points from 20 matches.

Their recent encounter against Tusker FC on February 3rd proved to be significant, clinching a hard-earned 1-0 victory away from home, as reported by Capital Sports.

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Douglas Mokaya's decisive goal in the first half dealt a blow to Tusker FC, who struggled to capitalize on numerous scoring opportunities in the latter part of the match.

Speaking to exclusively Sports Brief, Okare shared insights on Bidco United's performance in the ongoing season and his perspectives on the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 tournament.

Looking ahead to their upcoming league fixture against Nzoia Sugar on February 11 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Okare stressed the importance of approaching the match with utmost seriousness, acknowledging the challenge posed by a relegation-threatened opponent.

"In our upcoming match against Nzoia Sugar, we must maintain focus and determination. Despite their position in the league, we anticipate a tough encounter. Our primary objective remains to secure three points and advancing in the FKF Premier League standings," remarked Okare.

Shifting gears to AFCON 2023, he shared his predictions, favouring Ivory Coast as the eventual champions. Citing the host nation's formidable squad and the advantage of home support, Okare envisaged Côte d'Ivoire surpassing Nigeria in the final.

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"I believe Ivory Coast possesses the quality and advantage of playing on home soil, which will propel them to victory in AFCON 2023. Their strength as a collective unit, combined with the fervent support from their fans, positions them as strong contenders," expressed Okare.

Additionally, Okare commended the cohesion and teamwork displayed by the South African national team, attributing their success to the synergy fostered among players from renowned clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns.

Bafana Bafana's squad has a total of nine players from Brazilians, who seem to have helped the team get to the semi-finals through their local chemistry, as reported by ENews.

He lauded their collective approach, stressing teamwork over individual brilliance as the cornerstone of their achievements.

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In the week, perennial Kenyan champions Gor Mahia suffered their first defeat of the season at the hands of Kenya Police FC.

The match was further intensified by questions regarding the home team's decision to raise ticket prices at Nairobi's Sacco Stadium.